Pushchairs

Pushchair FACT SHEET

Did You Know?

Consider the cost implications of either buying an age restricted pushchair or spending money on one that can cater for your baby’s growth and development.

How To Buy Safely

When thinking of buying a pushchair, consider what your priorities are. Is it that the product must be easy to use that is important to you, or is its weight and ease to to fit in the car? Is it sturdy enough to not tip over?

Look for the safety standard marked on the product, the most recent of which is BS EN 1888:2012. Older second hand pushchairs may instead be marked BS 7409 or BS EN 1888:2003. Many pushchairs will also come with the message ‘warning – a child’s safety is your responsibility’. This is usually on the frame or seat covering.

Check the parking brake works both forwards and backwards.

Make sure there are two safety locks to stop it from folding up whilst the baby is in the pushchair. Don’t be afraid to try before you buy and make sure you are happy with using it before you do, Ensure the pushchair is stable in all directions.

It is best for the pushchair to have a 5-point safety harnesses to stop your baby from sliding out. Many old pushchairs only have 3 point harnesses.

If you are purchasing a second hand/used product, ask questions about its history, who it was used for, their age, the age of the product and most importantly – look for the safety marks listed above and signs of any damage it may have suffered. Make sure the harness is not frayed or damaged, the buckle is secure and easy to use and the wheels aren’t too heavily worn.

If you are buying online check the seller’s rating or reviews and their location. Goods sold online may well be cheaper but beware of inferior or even fake products. The picture and description may say it’s a brand you recognise, but what is delivered could be something else. Make sure the goods you receive match what was advertised online – if they don’t, contact the seller and the website. Sites like eBay have teams dedicated to resolving cases where the sent item doesn’t match what was advertised. The most important thing is to make sure your purchase doesn’t put your child at risk!

How To Set Up Safely

When making adjustments to the pushchair keep your child well away from any moving parts – the temptation for them to put a finger in the chair may be too much for them to resist and a crush or jam may occur, causing an injury to your child.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance and check the brakes and harness regularly.

How To Use Safely

Keep your child harnessed when they are in the pushchair.

Avoid overloading the pushchair with bags particularly if it is not designed for this purpose – pushchair handles are generally not good places to hang your shopping! A push chair can easily become overloaded and tip, putting your child at immediate risk.